‘My heart goes out to everyone involved,’ Lacey mayor says about school protests
Lacey Mayor Andy Ryder paused for a moment of reflection Thursday, addressing recent events at North Thurston Public Schools.
Black student union members and their supporters demonstrated at North Thurston and River Ridge high schools earlier in the week to call attention to what they say are school environments of racism and sexism that the district has not done enough to address.
“My heart goes out to everyone involved in that circumstance and I hope that we can find peace and resolution to what’s going on,” said Ryder during the City Council meeting.
Ryder added he would help if he can and pointed out that Deputy Mayor Malcolm Miller is involved. He thanked Miller for his leadership.
About 200 students protested at both schools Monday, and some protests continued through the week.
The Thursday morning protests at River Ridge were interrupted by an active shooter threat that proved to be false. In the interest of safety, students were sent home early, according to school officials.
During the city council meeting, Ryder wanted to make sure his fellow council members were OK.
“It’s been a busy time of the year, and there’s so much going on right now and there’s so much on my plate and all of yours as well,” he said.
He reminded the council to take care of themselves and to get help if they need it.
“The pandemic has taken a lot out of us and the community,” Ryder said. “Hang in there and never hesitate to ask for help.”
This story was originally published February 4, 2022 at 5:45 AM.
